Doctor Halper & Associates
~Psychological Assessment & Evaluation~
Deaf and Hard of Hearing
Doctor Halper & Associates offers psycho-educational, neuropsychological and personality assessments for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing. We work with the communication mode that is most comfortable for our clients. Dr. Halper is proficient in ASL, PSE, & SEE signed communication and is able to conduct assessments using any combination of signed, oral, and written communication methods.
Often, any problems experienced by deaf or hard of hearing individuals (in school, at work, or in relationships) are automatically attributed to their hearing loss. We understand that deaf and hard of hearing people have cognitive and personality strengths and weaknesses just like any other person, regardless of their hearing status. Doctor Halper & Associates strives to provide deaf and hard of hearing clients, and the parents of deaf and hard of hearing children, a comprehensive profile of intellectual abilities and personality traits.
A follow-up appointment is scheduled one to two weeks following the evaluation. During this appointment, the results of the tests are explained and recommendations and intervention strategies are provided in a clear and accessible way. Children age ten and up are encouraged to attend the feedback session so the results can be explained directly to them and any questions can be answered. Information regarding additional resources and support groups is also provided. Four to six weeks after testing has been completed a comprehensive written report will be mailed to the client. Should further questions arise, additional feedback sessions may be scheduled.
What to Expect
Depending on the referral question, evaluations can take anywhere from four to ten hours, and sometimes take more than ten hours. The evaluation begins with a clinical interview to gather information regarding developmental history, nature of the problem at hand, and a review of the school records (when applicable). Following the interview, clients engage in a series of activities to evaluate their abstract thinking skills, memory, attention, visual-motor integration, reading ability, writing ability, and social/ emotional functioning. If needed, parents and teachers are asked to fill out information regarding behavior in the home and school setting.